Most of the need to wash cycling jerseys frequently is due to the PONG factor of 'Stinkmax' (Coolmax) and related synthetics. I'll wear cotton t-shirts for 2-3 days in summer before they "go off", but if you want clothing that lasts between washes you can't go past the merino. Ground Effect have a few nice merino-mix cycling jerseys (merino inner surface, polyester exterior) and for winter I have a couple of Rapha 100% merino short-sleeved tops that I wear under other jerseys. In Central Australia on our recent tour we wore light Icebreaker merino tops and they were good for 4-5 days in hot weather before they got a bit much (mine got quite crusty from sweat but still no pong or other problems).

I am convinced that modern Australians have a cleanliness fetish when it comes to clothing and a bit of sweat

I'll usually go 2-3 rides depending how sweaty I get in the jersey, sometimes 1. Knicks I wash every use, gloves when they stink, socks usually 2 rides.Have done 24 hour races without changing anything so that was probably the grossest I've been on a bike. I remember mentioning to my teamates that I hadn't bothered having a shower during the event (they were heading off for a shower about halfway through), the reply was, "we know". Can't please women sometimes.

JustJames wrote:Seems this thread is where the stinkers have come to roost.

I'll say it again.

Coolmax = stinkmax, lots of pong even after just one day (I can smell it on myself)

Merino = sweet and comfy, no smell even after 4 days

I'm old enough to remember pre-coolmax days, even pre-lycra. Woollen jerseys were something you refrained from washing too much. The more they got washed the more they'd shrink, pretty soon it'll only fit little Johnny. Wool has a lot of special properties that no synthetics have yet been able to completely replicate.

No problem, I'd agree that washing kit is easier around home. But every unit washed is just adding to our water consumption. Merino jerseys are just one other option that needs a bit less frequent washing, while not developing a pong problem. Same goes for cotton or wool socks. Now wool knicks, I will not return to.

I wash everyday... even my gloves ( due to snot ). Have to wash everyday with kids in the house so not a big issue... plus sponsors give us plenty of cheap but great quality kit so I have a good back up supply.Gets a bit much in winter though when you start wearing 10 -15 articles of clothing .

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